What are the Symptoms of Heart Failure?
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood or deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to the body. This can lead to weakening of the heart muscle or impaired pumping function in the heart. Heart failure is a potentially life-threatening health problem. Early recognition of its symptoms is vital to improve quality of life and prevent complications.
Main Causes of Heart Failure
Heart failure can occur as a result of various health problems. These are as follows:
- Coronary Artery Disease: Heart failure can develop as a result of narrowing or blockage of the arteries that supply the heart.
- High Blood Pressure: Long-term high blood pressure can cause strain on the heart and lead to heart failure.
- Heart Valve Diseases: Failure of the valves in the heart to function properly can lead to heart failure.
- Heart Attack: Damage to the heart muscle after a heart attack can cause heart failure.
- Cardiomyopathy: A condition that develops as a result of inflammation or weakening of the heart muscle.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually worsen over time and can vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are as follows:
Shortness of Breath
- Shortness of breath at rest: People with heart failure may experience shortness of breath even at rest. This is due to the heart not being able to pump enough blood.
- Shortness of breath with exercise: Shortness of breath may increase during physical activities. These difficulties in exercising can also be a sign.
Swelling and Edema
- Swelling in the legs: It can cause swelling in the legs, feet and ankles. This swelling is caused by fluid accumulation in the body.
- Abdominal Swelling: Swelling or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen can also be a symptom.
Fatigue and Weakness
- Extreme Fatigue: It can cause a feeling of extreme tiredness and exhaustion during daily activities. This is due to the heart not being able to pump enough blood.
- Weakness: General weakness and lack of energy can be a sign.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat
- Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or palpitations can occur during heart failure. This indicates that the heart is working inefficiently.
- Fast Heartbeats: When the heart pumps insufficient blood, the heartbeat can accelerate and this can cause discomfort.
Early Intervention and Treatment in Heart Failure
Early intervention and treatment is extremely important when you experience symptoms of heart failure. What you need to do in this regard is as follows:
- Consult a doctor: When you experience symptoms, consult a cardiologist immediately. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
- Medical Tests: Your doctor may perform various tests to diagnose heart failure. These tests include ECG, echocardiography, blood tests and chest x-rays.
- Treatment Plan: Heart failure treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve the function of the heart. The treatment plan may include medications, lifestyle changes and, in some cases, surgery.
Measures to Manage Heart Failure
It is important to control symptoms and improve quality of life. The measures you can take are as follows:
- Balanced Diet: A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat proteins supports heart health.
- Walking and Light Exercise: Light walking and exercise, with your doctor's approval, can improve heart health and reduce fatigue.
- Fluid Restriction: Limiting fluid intake in line with your doctor's advice can reduce fluid accumulation in the body and control edema
- Regular Use of Medications: Regular use of medicines prescribed by your doctor can help you manage it. It is important to take your medication at the prescribed dose and on time.
- Reducing Stress: Managing stress and practicing relaxation techniques can positively affect heart health. Methods such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can help in this regard.
Heart failure is a serious condition that affects quality of life. Recognizing its symptoms early is a critical step for effective treatment and management. Shortness of breath, bloating, fatigue, coughing, palpitations and other symptoms can be signs. Seeking medical attention as soon as you recognize these symptoms. Following your doctor's recommendations will help you stay healthy.